STUNT shows, live music and gurning are all part of the entertainment as Egremont Crab Fair returns for its 749th year.

Thousands of revellers are expected to fill the town's streets over the weekend of Friday, September 16 and Saturday 17.

"The excitement is starting to build, we are hoping for good weather and we look forward to showcasing the 2016 Crab Fair," said Crab Fair secretary Callum Scott.

"We're hoping for a good turnout, the last two years have been exceptional. Next year is a huge 750th anniversary and we are already planning a show stopper event so we welcome new and old visitors to our event and thank you all for your support."

The opening night includes performances from 2011 X Factor finalist Kitty Brucknell and the Midnight Soul Sisters, a Motown tribute act featuring Bupsi Brown - an X Factor finalist from 2015.

There will also be performances from Johnny Wright, lead singer of the boy band Frixion, which has toured with The Wanted, Jessie J, Olly Murs and Alexandra Burke.

Fairground rides, face painting, superheroes and princesses will entertain the children.

While on Saturday, Jez Avery's biking stunt show is set to wow visitors alongside a bird of prey display and Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling.

During the morning street racing, an exhibition of classic and vintage vehicles and greasy pole entertainment will take place.

More activities include: A pet competition; egg throwing; terrier racing; a ferret show and races; terrier and lurcher shows; horse jumping and a beer tent with live music all day.

The fair culminates in the Market Hall with night time entertainment from Don McKay, a junior talent contest and the World Gurning Championships, including junior, ladies and mens gurning.

Before the main event, a Crab Fair disco will be held on Friday (September 9) for children 16 and under. During the disco this year's Crab Fair Queen will be decided. It takes place at the Catholic Club from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.